Monday, October 3, 2016

Oakdale looks to derail Pickering's playoff chances

                The 4-1 Red Devils of Pickering came into the 2016 season saying  "this is their year to go to the dome.” The Warriors of Oakdale with a record of 2-3 host Pickering in the opening matchup of district play and look to derail their opponent's playoff chances.
                In doing so Oakdale will have to contain a team led by back-up field general Jordan Dowden pinch hitting for the injured Patrick Hinson. "Dowden ran the offense well, and their offense has not missed a beat without Hinson at quarterback," said Oakdale coach Randall Gordon of Pickering's offense.
                The change in quarterback has not affected the offense that runs the ball about 86 percent of the time. Leading the way in rushing is senior running back Codie Williams who gained 139 yards on 32 carries with two touchdowns in the 26-15 win last week against Mangham.
                Williams runs behind an offensive line that Gordon calls "massive" with 6-foot 3-inch 255-pound Azavier Carter and  6-foot 2-inch 275-pound Austin Talley. "They will be the largest offensive line we have seen this season," said Gordon. "(Carter and Talley) are the two large tackles that do a great job on both sides of the ball."
                Oakdale comes into the matchup after hitting its stride in a 52-13 win at Mamou last week. Leading the way on offense were James Evins with his 14 carries for 192 yards and 5 touchdowns and Terrance Holmes with his five catches for 122 yards and a touchdown Defensively the Warriors were led by Jonathan Johnson and Holmes who each returned a turnover for a touchdown.
                "Overall it was good night for our Warriors and hopefully it sparked a little confidence to carry over as we start district play next week," said Gordon. "We have to clean up penalties and fumbles as we host Pickering in our first district game Friday."

                The two teams square off at 7:00 PM Friday night in the annual pink out game to begin breast cancer awareness month.

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